"To be back in this position at a snap of a finger was really difficult... I had a hard time reaching out for help because I was very prideful." Those are the words of Courtney, a single mom from Los Banos who suddenly became unemployed during her pregnancy last year.

When Courtney met her Case Manager, Nicole, she found more than a helping hand; she found a safe space. Beyond connecting her to resources like the food box program and the Diaper Bank, Nicole helped Courtney navigate her emotions and anxieties during these difficult times.

Today Courtney finds herself in a more hopeful position and knows how to get back on her feet. "What I want people to know is it's okay to ask for help... Nicole was like a steady hand holding my bike, and I'm so grateful".

To learn more about the work of our Birth Equity team or to be connected to our program, visit our Birth Equity page.

Meet Josh Semerjian! With the help of our programs, Josh has pushed through many hardships, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. After many challenges, Josh celebrates his great accomplishments as a PHD graduate from UC Merced.

Josh shares that he is most thankful for the emotional support he received from our staff during his tough times. MCCAA is honored to have been part of his journey and we are proud of his perseverance. Congratulations, Doctor Joshua Semerjian!

As preschool graduations approach, we wanted to share a family Success Story from the Delhi State Preschool. Meet the Martinez Family from Delhi, CA.

12 years after her start as a custodian, Jessica Martinez joined Stevinson State Preschool as a Site Supervisor. Today Jessica celebrates the accomplishments of her daughters, all alumnae of the State Preschool Program. Her eldest will be attending UC Berkeley in the Fall of 2025!

For the Martinez family, this has been a lifetime experience. "MCCAA helps a lot of families in different ways... I never thought I would work in Child Development, but here I am!", says Jessica. We are so proud of her dedication and our alumna Vada Martinez for her achievements! Thank you for letting MCCAA be part of your family's story.

Meet Viki, a Central California Alliance for Health member who received Enhanced Care Management services at MCCAA. 

Through these services, Viki had access to resources that helped her secure housing and home goods for her new place. She shares that being aware of this program was an important part of her journey to finding a home.

If you know somebody in need of Housing Transition Navigation Services or ECM assistance, call us at (209) 381-5260.

These are the words of Felicia, a recently housed community member who met our ECM team at the D St Shelter last April. Almost a year later Felicia has much to celebrate including her own living space and certification as a local Peer Support Navigator.

Felicia shares she is thankful for MCCAA and the ECM team who are active advocates for the homeless community during their journeys, helping make things right on their behalf. She hopes her story showcases the importance of "putting in the footwork and never giving up."

We are so proud of how far Felicia has come and how dedicated she remains to helping others in Merced County. Congrats and welcome home, Felicia!